Forging An Ancient Samurai Sword: The Art Of Making A Japanese Katana | BBC Documentary

Video Description

On the island of Kyushu in Japan, one of the country's last remaining families of Samurai sword makers are continuing a tradition their ancestors began nearly three centuries ago. Shiro Kunimitsu and his brother and son are dedicated to perfecting the art of producing swords of exceptional sharpness and durability. This film follows Shiro Kunimitsu and his family as they lovingly craft a sword. This process takes many months, hours of precision and focusing on the fine details. We discover the importance of the sword in the ancient Samurai code, its enduring spiritual and symbolic power, and the challenges facing the dwindling numbers of sword makers in Japan today. Handmade In Japan is a short trilogy of films that take a closer look at the incredible and iconic items that originate from Japan. The Samurai Sword, the Kimono and Japanese Pottery. Each film focuses on the process behind the craft as well as looking at their importance in Japanese culture.